The mountains of Los Angeles are impressive, rising out of the haze ahead in multi-colored craggy splendour against the bleached blue sky.
We'd decided to drive a short stretch of Route 66 which parallels the interstate, but as we turned off the I15, leaving all of its crazy drivers, an apocalyptic roll cloud appeared through the valley, seemingly making travel on the I15 even more hazardous.
Deciding not to risk it, we detoured via northern side of the San Gabriel mountains and arrived in Los Angeles on the I5. It took us six hours instead of four to make the trip, and we were a little weary.
Staying in West Hollywood means that we could put the car away and walk to restaurants and bars. We found great versions of each, eating at The Den on Sunset Boulevard.
The next day we chose to hike to the Hollywood sign. I've been trying to get close to this sign for some time, and managed to google directions to the best vantage point on Mt Lee. We hiked from Griffith Canyon parking lot to the published sign viewing points (very limited view), and then continued up the service road to the summit of Mt Lee, to spectacular views over Los Angeles, and a great view of the back of the sign.
It was an excellent hike through the canyon on good, open dirt trails. It was a ten kilometre round trip, with over 1500 feet in climb. We were pleased to have started out early to beat the crowds, and enjoy the peace of the bush. There were wildflowers everywhere.
Bronson Caves, where Batman (TV show) was filmed
Lunch at the only LA Shake Shack was warranted, and rewarding. Defintely my new favourite fast food burger joint.
The jacaranda trees and jasmine are flowering in LA, making a walk through the streets a very fragrant adventure. We spent the afternoon shopping at the Third Street Promenade at Santa Monica, one of my favourite haunts. I like the wide streets and the cafes and restaurants and buskers.
We met up with the lovely Chryss, who happened to be in town too, and had some excellent cocktails at The Misfit, a great bar just off the promenade. Dark wood paneling, leather bar stools, bar men with only numbers as names in a nod to prohibition days.
Watching the sun set into the ocean under a clear blue sky with wonderful company - perfect.
Today was our last day in America. I'm happy to be going home to see our family and friends but disappointed to leave this adventure behind. We've had a great time.
This morning we hired bikes and rode south from Santa Monica on the beach bike path. Perfect weather - warm and sunny. We rode around Marina Del Ray and as far as LAX, geeking out as the aircraft departed over our heads out over the coast.
Doing some excercise while seeing more of the country has been great fun.
Well, that's it, Friends. We're at the airport, all checked in and ready to go. We've had a great adventure and been lucky enough to stay safe over the thousands of miles we've travelled. I couldn't ask for more.
Thanks for reading. Until next time!
No comments:
Post a Comment